Classic Japanese albums: must-listen recommendations
In Japan’s music scene, there are countless outstanding classic albums that continue to resonate in people’s hearts across generations.
These masterpieces possess a timeless appeal that transcends trends and never fades.
Perhaps you, too, have an unforgettable album that holds a special place in your heart.
While the value of music varies with each person’s memories and sensibilities, the Japanese albums widely celebrated by many listeners are packed with undeniable charm.
In this article, we’ll introduce carefully selected classic Japanese albums that have been loved across eras and generations.
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Classic Japanese music masterpieces: must-listen recommended albums (31–40)
together; along with; bothWANIMA
This is the second full-length album by WANIMA, a three-piece rock band from Kumamoto Prefecture, released in 2018.
Their style, a faithful successor to Japan’s melodic hardcore scene, is alive and well here, packed with standout tracks featuring exhilarating speed and punchy vocals.
It includes many of their signature songs and commercially prominent tracks, such as Signal—written specifically for the 18 Fes—as well as Tomoni and Yatte Miyou.
The album swept the top spot across various charts, so if you haven’t heard it yet, be sure to check it out.
ENDLESS RAINX
Blue Blood, the second album by X Japan, revolutionized Japan’s rock scene.
Released in April 1989, it features songs that fuse heavy metal with visual kei elements, characterized by an energetic, powerful sound.
In addition to the title track “BLUE BLOOD,” the album includes many of their signature fan favorites, such as “Endless Rain” and “Kurenai.” It’s a record that rock lovers of any generation can enjoy, and it’s highly recommended for those who want to fully immerse themselves in the band’s musicality.
Robinsonsupittsu
An album every rock fan knows: Honey.
The songs crafted by Masamune Kusano and the four members of Spitz gently embrace the listener’s heart.
The crystalline guitar sound and uniquely evocative lyrics leave a strong impression, revealing something new with every listen.
Released in September 1995, this sixth album also includes the massive hit Robinson.
It’s packed with breezy tracks perfect for a drive—music that makes you want to listen while feeling a pleasant wind.
Highly recommended for those who want to revisit their youth or savor high-quality Japanese rock.
Black Ships (June 4, 1853, Kaei 6)Sadistic Mika Band
A masterpiece shining in the history of Japanese rock: Sadistic Mika Band’s album Kurofune (Black Ship).
Released in November 1974, this work took about 450 hours to produce.
Its distinctive sound, produced by Chris Thomas, shocked Japan at the time.
The track list includes songs like Time Machine ni Onegai, which was later used for anime tie-ins.
The album was highly acclaimed in the UK as well, and in 1975 the band even opened for Roxy Music on tour.
This is a must-listen for those who want to travel through history with music and enjoy experimental sounds.
firecrackerYellow Magic Orchestra
In November 1978, a record that brought a fresh breeze to the music scene arrived: Yellow Magic Orchestra’s debut album.
Its groundbreaking sound, powered by computer technology and synthesizers, astonished listeners at the time and became a worldwide hit.
Firecracker drew international attention as a track that fused traditional Japanese music with electronic music.
With lyrics inviting listeners to dance and evoking a mystical worldview, this work became a pioneering technopop album.
It’s one I highly recommend to music lovers.
Masterpieces of Japanese music: Must-listen recommended albums (41–50)
Fighting Fists, Angry SoulHi-STANDARD
This is the album by Hi-STANDARD that revolutionized Japan’s punk scene.
It features exhilarating, fast-paced guitars and powerful vocals, packed with songs that evoke the heartbeat of youth.
Released in May 1997, it reached No.
4 on the Oricon chart and sold over 500,000 copies worldwide.
“Fighting Fists, Angry Soul” conveys the importance of self-expression, while “The Sound of Secret Minds” emphasizes believing in your inner voice.
Brimming with the fun and mischievous spirit of punk rock, this work is perfect for moments when you want to feel youthful energy or reflect on yourself.
Dragon NightSEKAI NO OWARI
The third studio album by SEKAI NO OWARI, a four-member coed band known for their fantastical worldview and diverse musicality.
Released in January 2015, the album achieved major success, including reaching No.
1 on the Oricon album chart.
It features some of the band’s signature tracks such as “RPG” and “Snow Magic Fantasy,” covering a wide range of genres from J-pop to rock.
It also includes a tie-in song used as the theme for the film “Princess Jellyfish.” This album is packed with the appeal of SEKAI NO OWARI’s music and is highly recommended for those who want to immerse themselves in a magical world or enjoy a rich variety of sounds.